European Journal of Medicinal Plants

Atypical Saturated Fatty Acid Profile of Afraegle paniculata Seed Oil Induces Hyperlipidemia in Wistar Rats

Nevame DOH — 2025-11-06

Background: Amidst the nutrition transition in West Africa, the scientific validation of traditional food resources is imperative. This study provides the first biochemical and metabolic characterization of seed oil from Afraegle paniculata, a plant integral to Togolese traditional practices but heretofore unexamined for its dietary impact.

Methods: Oil was extracted from A. paniculata seeds (Soxhlet) and its fatty acid composition determined by GC-MS. Subsequently, a 28-day in vivo study was conducted, wherein male Wistar rats were orally administered the oil (2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 µL/g body weight) to evaluate its effects on serum lipid profiles (TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C) compared to groundnut oil and a control.

Results: The GC-MS analysis revealed an atypical lipid profile, dominated by saturated fatty acids (SFAs) at 93.5%. The principal constituents were lauric acid (C12:0; 60.73%) and myristic acid (C14:0; 25.56%). In vivo, administration of A. paniculata oil induced a significant, dose-dependent hyperlipidemia. This was characterized by a pronounced elevation in serum triglycerides at all doses (p < 0.01) and a significant increase in total cholesterol at the highest dose (p < 0.05) relative to the control group.

Conclusion: The unique SFA composition of A. paniculata seed oil, particularly its high concentration of lauric and myristic acids, provides a direct mechanistic basis for its potent hyperlipidemic effects. These findings caution against the promotion of this traditional oil for widespread culinary use, as it could paradoxically exacerbate the growing burden of cardiovascular disease in the region.

Ethnobotanical Survey and Phytochemical Screening of Aqueous Extracts of Flueggea virosa Collected in Mali

Niaboula DEMBELE — 2025-11-07

Flueggea virosa is a medicinal plant widely used in Malian traditional medicine for the treatment of various affections. This study aims to document the ethnobotanical uses of F. virosa in four localities of Mali and to compare the phytochemical profile from different region of Mali in order to link them to traditional uses.

The plant material consisted of leaves, bark, and whole roots of F. virosa. These organs were collected between October and November 2018 in Tabarako (Sikasso region) and Bougoula, Sanankoroba (Koulikoro region). A questionnaire was used to collect information from local populations regarding knowledge of the plant and recommended preparation methods. Ethnobotanical data were collected from 45 individuals (25 women and 20 men) aged 30 to 70. The extracts were prepared by decoction using reflux heating. The aqueous extracts were subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening. The results of ethnobotanical survey showed that F. virosa is used to treat 15 ailments. The main indications were infections and fever. All parts of F. virosa are used but in different proportions. The leaves the most commonly used, accounting for 57%, followed by the combination of leaves and roots (21%), roots alone (14%) and the least used being the combination of roots and bark (7%). The most frequently employed methods of preparation are decoction (79%), maceration (14%) and infusion (7%).

The qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, sterols and triterpenes, terpenoids, anthraquinones, amines, free quinones, reducing sugars in aqueous extract of F. virosa leaves, bark and root.

This study highlights the importance of F. virosa in Malian ethnomedicine and provides a foundation for further pharmacological studies.

The presence of the identified phytochemical compounds should justify its use in traditional medicine in Mali.

Haematinic, Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Peeled Tuber and Unpeeled Tuber Diets of Ipoemea batatas Lam (Sweet Potato) in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Albino Rats

Finin O. Okore — 2025-11-14

Aims: The study investigated the effect of Ipomoea batatas (sweet potato) supplemented diet on haematological, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory biomarkers in streptozotocin – induced diabetic albino rats. Study Design: A total of seventy two (72) albino rats that were assumed healthy were randomly assigned to nine (9) groups of eight (8) rats each. Diabetes was induced in groups 2 to 9 through intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60mg/kg). After 48 hours of establishing onset of diabetes, the animals were then fed diets supplemented with different percentages (10%, 20% and 30%) of sweet potato tuber flour (peeled and unpeeled) for 21 days. The control groups include group 1 (normal control); group 2 (diabetic untreated) and group 3 (diabetic treated with standard drug, metformin and glibenclamide at 50 mg/L and 0.5mg/mL). Groups 4- 6 and 7-9 were fed the supplemented diets peeled tuber and unpeeled tuber respectively. Duration of the study: The study was carried out in the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Abia State University, Uturu-Nigeria between the months of February and July 2025. Methodology: Diabetes was induced and the animals were fed the sweet potato supplemented diet for 21 days, then sacrificed, blood samples collected through cardiac puncture for analysis of haematological, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory biomarkers. Results: Results showed that the rats fed the supplemented diets had significant increase (p≥0.05) in their hematological parameters. The negative control group exhibited a marked reduction in RBC count (5.60 × 10⁶/mm³), PCV (39.20 %), and Hb concentration (13.90 g/dl) compared to the normal control group (7.06 × 10⁶/mm³, 44.60 %, and 16.42 g/dl, respectively). Dietary intervention with sweet potato tuber at various concentrations (10–30 %) improved haematological indices compared to the negative control group. Substantial improvement was observed in the 30 % tuber group, with RBC (6.80 × 10⁶/mm³), PCV (44.60 %), and Hb (15.44 g/dl). The combination of sweet potato tuber and peel had a more pronounced effect. The 30 % tuber and peel group (Group 9) demonstrated haematological values (RBC 7.33 × 10⁶/mm³, PCV 45.80 %, Hb 17.40 g/dl) nearly equivalent to those in the standard drug group. Antioxidant enzymes and anti- inflammatory biomarkers were all significantly increased. Treatment with sweet potato diets increased GSH in a dose-dependent manner, with the 30% tuber and peel group reaching 14.44 mg/dl, comparable to the normal and positive control groups (15.24 mg/dl). At the highest concentration (30 % tuber), IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α were reduced to 8.16 pg/ml, 0.79 pg/ml, and 8.34 pg/ml, respectively. The 30 % tuber and peel combination (Group 9) achieved cytokine levels of 5.13 pg/ml (IL-6), 0.49 pg/ml (IL-1β), and 4.71 pg/ml (TNF-α), The animals fed the unpeeled sweet potato tuber diet showed significant improvement in the parameters assayed. Conclusion: These findings suggest the use of sweet potato processed without peeling as dietary intervention for diabetes management and its associated complications.

Evaluation of the Immunogenicity of Sargassum fluitans, an Invasive Brown Seaweed in the Coastal Zone of Côte d'Ivoire, in Rabbits

Aboubacar OUATTARA — 2025-11-15

Sargassum fluitans is an invasive brown seaweed found in coastal areas of Côte d'Ivoire, whose presence causes numerous problems for local communities. The aim of this study is to contribute to the development of this species by evaluating its immunogenic potential in rabbits. The study made it possible to extract and identify, through phytochemical sorting, the active ingredients contained in the Total Aqueous Extract (TAE), which are polyphenols and tannins. The injection of TAE in increasing doses to rabbits showed that Sargassum fluitans stimulates immunity by inducing an increase in immune cell levels. Indeed, the results of blood tests on the rabbits showed that the immune defense cells, composed mainly of white blood cells, lymphocytes, and neutrophils, underwent various changes over time (from D0 to D8) after injection of the product. The different doses of 5 mg/mL, 15 mg/mL, 25 mg/mL, and 9‰ NaCl (controls) showed relatively low results. However, the 25 mg/mL dose proved to be the most interesting. Indeed, the number of Gb and Ne on D2 was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than on D0, confirming rapid and strong stimulation. Sargassum fluitans could be an excellent candidate for further studies with a view to developing an immunostimulant, thereby contributing to the genuine promotion of these brown algae.

Ethnonutritional and Medicinal Plant Knowledge and Practices for Postpartum Maternal Healthcare in Yoto Prefecture, Togo: An Ethnopharmacological Study

Mlatovi DEGBE — 2025-11-18

Introduction: The postpartum period is a critical phase for maternal health, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In Togo, modern healthcare coexists with deeply rooted, yet largely undocumented, endogenous knowledge systems for postpartum care. This ethnopharmacological and ethnonutritional heritage, vital for restoring maternal vitality, faces erosion and lacks integration with biomedicine, posing potential safety risks. This study aimed to systematically document, analyze, and evaluate the traditional knowledge governing postpartum healthcare in the Yoto prefecture of Togo.

Methods: A cross-sectional, mixed-methods ethnopharmacological study was conducted from July to September 2024. Semi-structured interviews were administered to 305 informants (traditional healers, birth attendants, mothers, and elders) selected via purposive and snowball sampling. Data were analyzed using qualitative thematic content analysis to understand local etiologies and quantitative ethnobotanical indices (Use Value, UV; Informant Consensus Factor, ICF) to assess knowledge consensus. A literature review was performed to assess the pharmacological plausibility and toxicological risks of key species.

Results: The local postpartum care model is a coherent system based on the perceived vulnerability of the new mother, focusing on healing an internal wound (88.9%), "restoring blood" (83.6%), and "warming the body" (84.6%). We documented over 21 plant taxa, with leaves (76.5%) and decoctions (63.5%) being the most frequent preparations. An exceptionally high ICF (0.99) was found for all three main therapeutic categories (uterine cleansing, anti-anemic, and wound healing), indicating a highly robust, shared knowledge system. Key species identified by high Use Value included Tetrapleura tetraptera (UV=0.87), Moringa oleifera (UV=0.83), and Alstonia boonei (UV=0.76). A state of medical pluralism was confirmed: 89.8% of women use modern health facilities, yet only 14% discuss their traditional remedy use with providers.

Conclusion: The traditional postpartum knowledge in Yoto is a sophisticated system with high pharmacological plausibility for many practices. However, this study identifies significant public health risks, notably the use of potentially hepatotoxic plants (A. boonei) and the intensive use of antiplatelet-rich spices (e.g., Zingiber officinale) that may exacerbate postpartum hemorrhage. The profound communication gap between traditional and modern systems creates a dangerous blind spot. Urgent pharmacological validation and culturally competent communication strategies are required to integrate these systems safely and effectively.

Macroscopic Evaluation and Clarification of Popular Medicinal Plants in Kabarole, Fort Portal, Uganda

Nwokike Matthew O. — 2025-11-24

Kabarole, Fort portal and adjacent villages has diversity of medicinal plants due to its location in the tropical regions that favours growth of various plant and herbal species from which its people access lots of herbs to treat ailments and many more indigenous diseases that affect the tropics, systematic documentation of these plants aids in preserving the indigenous knowledge used in new drug discovery geared towards health promotion and disease prevention. Macroscopic assessment refers to the visual and tactile examination of plant materials without a microscope. It helps identify and authenticate medicinal plants based on their colour, texture, size, shape, odour, and taste. Macroscopic Assessment is Important because it’s a quick and cost-effective method of initial quality control, helps in field identification, Essential for pharmacognostic evaluation and also prevents adulteration in herbal drugs. Whereas Clarification involves: Ensuring purity; free from adulterants or contaminants.

Methods: A survey was conducted in the western district of Kabarole, Fort portal and adjacent villages of Rwengoma, Mugoma, kagote, Mpanga, kyanbukonkoni, Mugusu, kasusu, Nyakasura using semi structured questionnaires, physical assessment to identify colour, texture and shape of many medicinal plants, oral recordings asking old native individuals practising herbal medicines.

Results: A variety of medicinal plant species were documented and the most used was Vernonia amygdalina (Mubirisi) treating many ailments and diseases, Bidens pilosa (Esaaka), Warburgia ugandanesis (omubwananzini), Erythrina abyssinica (Omuko), Acanthus pubescens (ekitojo), Mondia whitei (Emirondwa). The main plant parts used are leaves, barks, roots that are boiled or chewed and administered topically or orally. Family of Asteraceae provided most medicinal plant species.

Conclusion: Most of the herbal medicine used is readily available and easily accessible to the low-income communities due to the diverse plant species and is the most sought-after form of medication despite the presence of modern biomedicines supply.

Microbiological Characterization and Pathogenicity Assessment of Bacteria Isolated from Medicinal Plant Powders Sold in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

KOUAME Kouassi Bernadin — 2025-11-25

Introduction: Medicinal plant powders are widely used in sub-Saharan Africa, especially in Côte d’Ivoire, as accessible alternatives to conventional medicine. However, their informal trade, often lacking sanitary regulation, promotes microbial contamination. This study aimed to identify bacterial species present in medicinal plant powders sold in Abidjan markets and assess their pathogenic and antimicrobial resistance profiles.

Methods: One hundred (100) medicinal powder samples were collected from markets across Abidjan. Bacteria were isolated and identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. A small amount of bacterial culture is deposited on a target with a chemical matrix and then ionized by a laser. The generated ions are accelerated in a vacuum tube, and their time of flight is measured. The resulting mass spectrum is compared to a database to identify the bacterial species. Pathogenicity was evaluated through an extensive literature review focusing on virulence factors and resistance mechanisms.

Results: Seventy-four (74) bacterial isolates representing 16 pathogenic and opportunistic species were identified, including Enterobacter hormaechei (30), Escherichia coli (18), Klebsiella pneumoniae (2), Proteus mirabilis (2), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (5), and various Staphylococcus species. Rare isolates such as Cronobacter sakazakii and Alcaligenes faecalis were also detected. Literature data indicate that these species possess multiple virulence factors (biofilm, urease, siderophores, toxins) and exhibit multidrug resistance, particularly to β-lactams (ESBLs, carbapenemases), fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, and polymyxins.

Conclusion : The presence of bacteria in medicinal powders sold in Abidjan could pose a major health risk to consumers. These results highlight the need to establish strengthened quality control measures and appropriate regulations to protect consumer health.

Phytochemical Study and Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Aqueous Extract of Picralima nitida (Apocynaceae) Seeds in Wistar Rats

Mian Jean-Claude — 2025-11-25

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of Picralima nitida (Apocynaceae) seeds, a plant widely used in traditional African medicine for the treatment of various pathologies.

Methods: The aqueous extract of Picralima nitida seeds (EAPn) obtained by the decoction method was used for toxicological, photochemical and pharmacological tests. The acute oral toxicity study was carried out by administering 1 ml of a single dose of 300, 2000 and 5000 mg/kg body weight of EAPn to three batches of mice, in accordance with the guidelines of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Qualitative phytochemical screening was carried out in accordance with the techniques described in the work of Emina et al. Using the method of Winter et al., the anti-inflammatory activity of EAPn was tested using 24 wistar rats. Edema was induced by injection of 1% carrageenan under the plantar pad of the rats' right hind leg. 300 mg/kg BW. of EAPn and 10 mg/kg BW. of indomethacin (INDOCID) were administered by gavage to the test batches, while the control batch received distilled water.

Results: In the presence of EAPn and indomethacin, treated batches showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in mean paw edema compared with the control group from 1st to 6th hour. At 4ᵉ hours, inflammation inhibition rates were 94.5 ± 0.33% and 78 ± 1% (p < 0.001) respectively for indomethacin and EAPn. EAPn thus showed anti-inflammatory effects similar to those of indomethacin. Oral administration of EAPn at a single high dose of 5000 mg/kg BW produced no mortality in mice during the 14-day observation period. We deduce that the lethal dose of EAPn is greater than 5000 mg/kg BW. The extract is therefore considered non-toxic by the oral route. Qualitative phytochemical screening of the aqueous extract revealed the presence of several chemical groups with therapeutic potential, including flavonoids, saponosides, alkaloids and tannins.

Conclusion: the chemical groups present in EAPn could be responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects observed. This study offers an accessible and sustainable alternative for the management of inflammatory diseases.

Formulation and Evaluation of Sustained-release Matrix Tablets of Withania coagulans Extract for Antidiabetic Activity

Siddhesh Nandaram Matele — 2025-11-27

Herbal phytomedicines provide alternative approaches to conventional allopathic therapies, which are often expensive and associated with adverse effects. Withania coagulans fruits have been traditionally recognized for their antidiabetic properties. The study aimed to develop and optimize sustained-release matrix tablets of Withania coagulans extract and evaluate their in vitro antidiabetic potential containing freeze-dried extract of Withania coagulans Linn. The tablets were formulated by wet granulation method using HPMC K100 as a polymer and starch as a binder. Ethanolic extraction of Withania coagulans was performed using a Soxhlet apparatus, and phytochemical screening revealed the presence of carbohydrates, glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, proteins, and steroids. In vitro antidiabetic activity was assessed by glucose uptake in yeast cell model assay at various concentrations, showing a dose-dependent increase. The ethanolic extract exhibited 64.24% glucose uptake compared to 73.3 % for the standard drug Metformin at 500 µg/mL. Sustained release tablets were compressed using a 16-station rotary press (13 mm die) at 6–8 ton compression force. The prepared formulations were evaluated for hardness, thickness, weight variation, friability, disintegration, and drug content, all of which were within acceptable limits. In vitro dissolution studies indicated that formulation F2 containing 100 mg of HPMC K100 achieved 94 % drug release over 12 hours, demonstrating effective sustained release characteristics. The study concludes that Withania coagulans fruits possess significant in vitro antidiabetic potential and that sustained release matrix tablets of its freeze-dried extract can be successfully developed and evaluated as per Indian Pharmacopoeia standards.

Effects of Cymbopogon citratus Essential Oil on Social Interactions and Welfare Indicators in Newly Weaned Piglets

Amanda Chaaban — 2025-12-02

Aims: This study investigated a sustainable and innovative alternative to improve animal welfare in swine production through the topical application of Cymbopogon citratus essential oil (CCEO) in newly weaned piglets.

Study design: Completely randomized design.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the Swine Teaching and Learning Unit of the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Santa Catarina (IFC), Araquari Campus, Brazil, between February 2019 and April 2020.

Methodology: A total of 124 newly weaned piglets were randomly assigned to four groups: a control group and three treatments with CCEO applied at concentrations of 1.25%, 2.50%, and 5.00%. At each weaning, piglets received 1 mL of the solution on the dorsal region and were observed for 3 hours for behavioral recording through photos and videos, without observer interaction. Skin lesions were mapped 24 h after weaning and classified by anatomical region. The study was structured in three stages: (I) an initial observational survey of the behavioral repertoire, (II) development of an ethogram with zootechnical parameters, and (III) validation of the ethogram with detailed behavioral analysis. Zootechnical performance (body weight, average daily gain, and mortality rate) was assessed in stages II and III.

Results: Chemical analysis confirmed citral (87.53%) as the predominant component of the oil. CCEO significantly influenced several non-agonistic behaviors (P < 0.05), increasing calm and exploratory activities—particularly at 2.50% and 5.00%. While aggression frequencies did not differ among treatments, CCEO-treated piglets showed a consistent numerical reduction in skin lesions 24 h after weaning. Zootechnical performance was not negatively affected, with higher concentrations showing a tendency toward improved growth.

Conclusion: Overall, topical CCEO promoted more positive social interactions and reduced the severity of agonistic outcomes without compromising productivity. These findings indicate that CCEO is a simple, low-cost, and practical strategy that can be readily implemented to enhance welfare during the critical post-weaning period.

Antimicrobial Resistance Profile and Antimicrobial Activity of the Methanolic Extract of Pereskia aculeata Mill. against Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Broiler Chicken Carcasses

Maria Augusta Dorigan Bondezan-Parra — 2025-12-03

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial resistance profile of Escherichia coli strains isolated from broiler carcasses and to assess the antibacterial activity of the methanolic extract of Pereskia aculeata Mill. by determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC).

Location and Duration: The research was carried out in a poultry slaughterhouse located in Paraná, Brazil, and at the Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Public Health, Universidade Paranaense, between November 2022 and December 2023.

Methodology: Carcass samples were obtained by washing procedures from two broiler farms, collecting 20 samples from each. Enterobacteria were isolated and tested for antimicrobial resistance using the disk diffusion method. Subsequently, the MIC and MBC of the methanolic extract of P. aculeata Mill. were determined.

Results: All carcass samples were contaminated with enterobacteria, and one E. coli strain was isolated per sample. No significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed in resistance profiles between farms A and B. Amoxicillin exhibited the highest resistance rate among tested antimicrobials. Multidrug resistance was slightly higher in farm B (30%) compared to farm A (25%). MIC and MBC determination was not feasible, as all strains grew at concentrations ≤ 20 mg/mL. Chemical analysis revealed trans-cinnamic acid (50.13 mg/100 g) and caffeic acid (17.03 mg/100 g) as the major compounds in the extract.

Conclusion: Broiler carcasses harbor multidrug-resistant E. coli strains, posing a significant public health concern. The methanolic extract of P. aculeata Mill. failed to inhibit bacterial growth at concentrations up to 20 mg/mL, suggesting that the extraction method may not have been effective under the tested conditions. These findings highlight the urgent need for further studies employing alternative extraction techniques and evaluating bioactive compounds to develop strategies for controlling antimicrobial resistance.